Why is it that some people seem to be naturally happier than others? An Edinburgh University study seems to know the answer. Their study of twins suggests that genes control half the personality traits that make us happy. The other half is linked to lifestyle, career and relationships. The study looked at the results of 900 identical and non-identical pairs of twins. They measured their level of happiness in terms of anxiety, sociability and conscientiousness. The results suggested that these traits were influenced up to 50 percent by genetic factors.
Dr Alexander Weiss who led the research said, “Together with life and liberty, the pursuit of happiness is a core human desire. Although happiness is subject to a wide range of external influences, we have found there is a component of happiness which can be entirely explained by genes.” However, another expert said that we can still train ourselves to be happier. “Simple things, such as keeping a journal where you write down, every night, three things that you are grateful for, have been shown to deliver improvements.” Will you try it?